'India is my first love'

By Hindustan Times

New Delhi, July 17 -- Oscar-winner AR Rahman may have just released a world single featuring rock idol Mick Jagger, but the music maestro says his heart will always belong to India. As Rahman completes 20 years in the music industry, rumour has it that he has become too expensive for Bollywood. "That is not true. Indian films are my first love and I can never turn them down just because of money. I did not come into the industry for money and I never will do that."

What about the industry sentiment that he's more inclined towards Hollywood? "Because of my world tour and other commitments, I haven't been able to dedicate too much time here. But I will never quit composing for Indian films. I cannot think of doing work only in Hollywood and passing films from here," he reaffirms.

Besides his work with Jagger, Rahman recently cut his first world music album, Rock the Table. And, with albums such as Guru and 127 Hours under his belt, he's practically ruling Bollywood and Hollywood. "I don't think it is right to say that I'm ruling industries. I'm in the industry to entertain people and experiment with music - ruling it has never crossed my mind. I'm grateful that I'm still living and making music among the greats," he says. Humble as ever, Rahman credits his success to his wife Saira Banu. "She is my pillar of strength and I'm always at peace because of her. I'm assured that she will always be there, taking care of everything. It is because of her that I have been able to achieve whatever I have."